About media literacy

Information about Ofcom’s media literacy activities

Media literacy enables people to have the skills, knowledge and understanding to make full use of the opportunities presented by both traditional and new communications services. Media literacy also helps people to manage content and communications, and protect themselves and their families from the potential risks associated with using these services.

In an online environment where the possibility for direct content regulation diminishes, the need for a media-literate public increases. Consumers and citizens need to be aware of the risks and opportunities offered across an array of online and mobile service activities, while stakeholders need to understand and monitor to what extent people are aware of changes and developments.

Ofcom has a statutory duty to promote media literacy under Section 11 of the Communications Act 2003. Under Section 14 (6a) of the Act we have a duty to make arrangements for the carrying out of research into the matters mentioned in Section 11 (1).

Providing an evidence base of UK adults’ and children’s understanding and use of electronic media;

Sharing the evidence base with a wide range of stakeholders internally and externally, and supporting their work via research.

Ofcom’s robust research into people’s media literacy needs plays a vital role in the formulation of public policy, as well as providing organisations and agencies with the evidence they need to best target their initiatives on the ground.

The Ofcom quarterly media literacy bulletins provide short summaries of media literacy activities by a range of organisations in the UK and overseas. These activities include research, events, projects and awards.